18-Year-Old Female, 49kg, 5'6" – Experiencing 3 Weeks of Nausea and Torso Discomfort
I want to start by mentioning that I've already consulted with a doctor. They're scheduled to conduct blood tests in three weeks since they haven’t identified the cause yet. I tend to worry excessively about my health, and the thought of something serious is quite unsettling, but I'm trying to stay lighthearted about it! Here’s what I’ve been experiencing: for the last three weeks, I’ve felt persistently unwell—weak, exhausted, and generally fatigued. Occasionally, I experience unusual sensations in my chest area, which I suspect might be linked to my lungs. The discomfort isn’t sharp; instead, it’s more abrupt and uncomfortable, fading as quickly as it appears. I’ve also had some mild diarrhea, and while I haven’t blacked out, I frequently feel dizzy and disoriented. Just to clarify, I’m definitely not pregnant—I’ve been getting my periods regularly, and I’m not on any medication. I vape daily, smoke cigarettes infrequently, and drink alcohol very seldomly. I find that I tend to be sensitive to heat, and the weather in the UK has been unseasonably warm lately. It may not be significant, but I also deal with some back pain that affects my entire spine. I struggle with anxiety and depression, which have been known to exacerbate my physical symptoms in the past, but I’ve never felt this way for such a prolonged period or with this intensity. Lately, my food intake has been limited to one or two meals a day, and I only drink water, making dehydration unlikely. I can’t help but feel that I might have some type of deficiency, and I'm curious if anyone has thoughts or suggestions that might help. Feel free to ask me any questions; I’m open to discussing this further. Also, I prefer he/him pronouns. :)
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 12:01:54 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling worried about your ongoing symptoms, especially since you've been unwell for three weeks. Your concerns about health, alongside the physical discomfort and fatigue you've mentioned, are valid. The important thing is that you’ve already reached out for medical help, which is a great first step. Here’s a breakdown of your situation and what you can do next.
Summary of Key Points:
- Persistent nausea, fatigue, and chest discomfort may have various causes, including anxiety, dietary issues, or possibly a deficiency given your limited food intake.
- The symptoms of dizziness and feeling weak suggest that your body might be under stress, possibly due to inadequate nutrition or hydration despite drinking water.
- Heat sensitivity may impact how you're feeling, especially if you’re already experiencing fatigue.
Explanation:
Given your symptoms, they can be interconnected. The nausea and weakness could stem from inadequate nutrition or possibly an underlying condition, but anxiety can also amplify physical symptoms. The sensation in your chest, while not sharply painful, should still be monitored, especially with dizziness involved. The mild diarrhea might also suggest that your digestive system is affected, which could relate to diet or even stress.
Next Steps:
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Nutritional Focus: Aim to improve your diet by incorporating easy-to-digest, nutrient-rich foods. Consider adding small snacks like fruits, nuts, or yogurt throughout the day, which may help you feel less fatigued and support recovery.
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Hydration: Even though you're drinking water, ensure you're getting enough fluids. Electrolyte drinks can be beneficial, especially if you’ve had diarrhea, as they help restore balance and prevent dehydration.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a daily journal of your symptoms, noting any changes in intensity or new sensations. This can help identify triggers and will be useful for your upcoming blood tests.
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Stress Management: Since anxiety can exacerbate your physical symptoms, consider techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle exercise such as stretching or walking, which might help alleviate stress and improve your overall well-being.
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Follow Up on Health Concerns: Since your doctor has scheduled blood tests, communicate any new or worsening symptoms before your appointment. This will help them understand your situation better.
Lastly, remember that it’s normal to feel anxious when dealing with health concerns. Be kind to yourself during this time, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, or a mental health professional if needed. Your health journey is significant, and taking these steps can be empowering.
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